The midfielder played for los Blancos between 2007 and 2009 and timed his strike to perfection, with Jose Mourinho - who coached the Netherlands international during his time with Inter - watching on from the stands.

"Scoring that goal sent the message that they should be careful," the 28-year-old told reporters.

"I've not seen him [Mourinho] in a long time. It was very good to see my old teacher for the first time since the Champions League final against Bayern."

Mourinho's former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba also featured for Gala, while ex-Madrid midfielder Hamit Altintop came off injured and is a doubt for the Champions League clashes.

Sneijder moved to Turkey in January and revealed his satisfaction with his ever-improving level of displays.